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The Jovian stratosphere in the ultraviolet
R Wagener1, J Caldwell, T Owen
1Department of Earth and Space Science, State University of New York, Stony Brook 11794-2100, USA.
Icarus
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Jupiter
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Atmospheric Science
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Jupiter's upper atmosphere composition impacts its reflectivity.
- Ultraviolet (UV) spectra provide insights into stratospheric gases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the composition of Jupiter's stratosphere using UV reflectivity data.
- To identify specific gases contributing to Jupiter's UV spectrum.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 30 low-dispersion International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) spectra (1450-3150 angstroms).
- Utilized a vertically inhomogeneous radiative transfer program for modeling.
- Compared model reflectivities with observed spectral data.
Main Results:
- Ammonia and acetylene are confirmed as significant absorbers in Jupiter's UV spectrum.
- A small amount of propadiene/allene (C3H4) improves spectral fit below 1800 angstroms.
- Cyclopropane (C3H6) or other hydrocarbons/haze may explain absorption near 1600 angstroms.
Conclusions:
- Ammonia and acetylene are key components of Jupiter's stratosphere affecting UV reflectivity.
- Trace amounts of propadiene/allene and potentially cyclopropane contribute to the UV spectrum.
- Further investigation is needed to confirm the presence of specific trace gases and high-altitude hazes.